The things I learned yesterday by talking to strangers, my ex, my daughter and a police officer.

I never set out to have these experiences.  They just happen.  And, I never really understand the significance until I write it down or tell someone.

1. In talking with a guy at the health club yesterday, I learned that working out is a form of ultimate joy for someone who thought he would never walk again.  His story was a car accident with spinal damage at 29.  He was completely focused on  his recovery and there he was, standing up and lifting weights.  Never take your health or the ability to move, for granted.

2. In chatting with the stranger on the elevator, I learned that how you feel inside will be the determining factor for how you look outside.  When I got on, she was already there.  Her eyes looked red, as if she’d been crying (been there, done that).  She looked beaten down.  I opened my mouth (as I always do) and simply said, “No matter what happened, you will have a fantastic day.  And, I totally love your boots! ”  She looked at me and smiled.   Later, when I went out for coffee, she walked by me.  She looked so different – really nice – that I almost didn’t recognize her.  She came over and touched me on the shoulder, “Thanks for this morning.  You made my day so much better.  Oh, and I love your boots too!”   Small connections make a big difference.

3. After talking with my ex yesterday about a million different things, I realized that if I can’t be married, I’ve got the next best thing – a nice ex-husband.

4. I realized (as I do some days) that my kids are getting older.  Yesterday, my daughter was invited to a prestigious rowing camp out east for three weeks this summer.  I am excited but sad she will be gone so long.  To that, she says, “it’ll be OK – it’s only three weeks.” Feels like a life time to me.  Time – every moment of it – is precious.

5. I met someone at the store tonight – a police officer (so scared of them normally) who told me that he decided on that line of work because he wanted to help people.  But what he’s realized that even though he does help people, “All the true helping is done by the average person in their daily life.”  What an amazing statement.  That means us!

What do I take from these experiences?

That there’s more good than bad.  That we persevere no matter what the end result.  That time is gone as soon as it comes. That talking with people provides us and them with connections that, although fleeting, are permanent.  And, that all these connections create the collective good of our world.  

If I hadn’t talked with any of these people, I wouldn’t have received these great life lessons.

Life is beautiful.  Enjoy today.